Common Bathroom and Kitchen Renovation Mistakes
Avoid These Common Bathroom and Kitchen Renovation Mistakes – And How Steel Framing Can Help
Renovating your bathroom or kitchen can completely transform your home’s comfort, functionality, and value. But as rewarding as these projects can be, they also come with complexity — from layout challenges and waterproofing to cabinetry design and ventilation.
According to Shelley Wylie, Senior Bathroom Designer at Banana Bathrooms, “Many homeowners underestimate just how much planning goes into a bathroom renovation. Without clear design direction, a realistic budget, and the right materials, small mistakes can quickly turn into big problems.”
It’s a similar story in the kitchen. Rhys Armstrong, Director of Envision Kitchens, adds, “A kitchen renovation isn’t just about style — it’s about functionality and flow. Planning your layout early and thinking about how you actually use the space makes all the difference.”
From design preparation to structure and style, here are the most common bathroom and kitchen renovation mistakes — and how steel framing can help you avoid them.
1. Not Being Adequately Prepared
Every successful renovation begins with good planning. Shelley advises clients to “create a clear vision board — explore inspiration on Pinterest, Instagram and in showrooms — so you can communicate your ideas effectively to your designers and trades.”
Rhys agrees: “In the kitchen, preparation means understanding how you cook, store, and move through the space. Do you need more bench space, or extra pantry storage? These questions help guide the design and layout.”
A solid plan should outline your budget, fixtures, layout, materials, and timelines. Both Banana Bathrooms and Envision Kitchens offer tailored design consultations to help clients prepare confidently and avoid costly surprises later.
2. Mixing Too Many Styles
While it’s tempting to blend your favourite trends, too many competing ideas can make your bathroom or kitchen feel inconsistent.
“Your bathroom should complement the style of your home — whether that’s coastal, modern, or Hamptons-inspired,” Shelley says. “Consistency in colour, texture and finish creates a cohesive look.”
Rhys adds, “The same applies in kitchens. Following too many design trends can date your space quickly. Focus on timeless elements like neutral cabinetry, quality benchtops, and a layout that prioritises functionality.”
For inspiration, explore Banana Bathrooms’ Top Bathroom Styles for 2025 and Envision Kitchens’ 9 Common Kitchen Renovation Mistakes for practical style advice and trend insights.
3. Getting the Layout Wrong
Both bathrooms and kitchens need a balance between form and function.
“Think about how you use the space daily,” says Rhys. “A poorly placed island or sink can disrupt workflow and make your kitchen frustrating to use.”
In bathrooms, Shelley notes that layout mistakes often stem from underestimating space requirements or not coordinating early with builders.
This is where structure matters. Gavin Sharp, Director of Australian Steel Framing, explains:
“A steel frame provides millimetre-perfect precision, ensuring cabinetry, tiles, and walls all align seamlessly. It gives designers the accuracy they need to create clean lines and practical layouts in both bathrooms and kitchens.”
4. Not Including Enough Storage
Insufficient storage is one of the most common renovation regrets. Shelley recommends “incorporating recessed niches, mirrored cabinets, and floating vanities to keep bathrooms clutter-free.”
In kitchens, Rhys stresses the importance of “using every inch wisely — drawers instead of cupboards, pull-out pantries, and overhead cabinets for extra storage. You should never have to compromise practicality for design.”
With steel framing, storage flexibility increases. “Because steel offers structural consistency, we can integrate built-ins and recesses during design rather than retrofitting later,” Gavin notes.
5. Skimping on Waterproofing
Waterproofing mistakes are among the costliest issues in wet areas. Shelley warns, “Waterproofing is classed as a structural element and must be completed by a licensed professional with a compliance certificate.”
Bathrooms and kitchens both deal with water exposure daily. Gavin adds:
“Steel framing provides added confidence. It doesn’t rot, warp, or attract termites. So even if moisture breaches your waterproofing, your structure won’t deteriorate.”
This long-term protection is one reason steel frames are becoming the preferred choice in both renovations and new builds.
6. Poor Ventilation and Lighting
Proper ventilation prevents mould and odours, especially in high-moisture areas like bathrooms and kitchens. Shelley advises combining natural airflow with mechanical ventilation.
“Steel framing allows for custom window designs without the risk of warping,” Gavin explains. “You can create larger openings for better light and ventilation.”
Rhys also highlights lighting: “Task lighting under cabinets and ambient lighting over benchtops can completely change how a kitchen feels. Plan lighting early — it’s not an afterthought.”
7. Choosing Cheap Fixtures and Fittings
Quality fixtures make all the difference in how your bathroom or kitchen looks and performs over time.
“You touch your taps, handles, and cabinetry every day — invest in quality,” Shelley says. “Cheap fittings might look good initially but won’t stand up to daily use.”
Rhys agrees: “Cabinet hardware, hinges, and benchtops take daily wear. Spending a little more on quality means less maintenance and longer life.”
Gavin reinforces that this applies to the structure as well: “A steel frame is a once-only investment — it stays straight, strong, and stable for decades.”
8. Underestimating the Budget
Budget blowouts are a common renovation pain point. Shelley and Rhys both emphasise the importance of setting realistic expectations.
“A standard bathroom renovation ranges from $25,000–$35,000,” Shelley says. “Kitchens can range anywhere from $30,000–$60,000 depending on materials and complexity.”
Allow a contingency of at least 10%, and understand how costs break down across plumbing, electrical, joinery, and tiling. Both companies provide transparent quoting so clients know exactly what to expect.
The Hidden Advantage: Steel Framing in Modern Renovations
While most homeowners focus on finishes, the structure behind the walls and cabinets plays a crucial role in the quality and longevity of your renovation.
“A light-gauge steel frame provides the straightest, most stable foundation possible,” says Gavin. “It eliminates warping, resists moisture and termites, and ensures everything — from tiles to cabinetry — fits perfectly.”
Steel’s strength also suits modular-style construction and prefabricated components, making installations faster and more accurate.
Start Your Next Renovation With Confidence
Whether you’re upgrading your bathroom, your kitchen, or both, success comes down to planning, precision, and the right materials.
Visit Banana Bathrooms to explore their full range of bathroom renovation services and 18 complete displays at their Newcastle Showroom.
For kitchen design inspiration and expert guidance, connect with Envision Kitchens — specialists in bespoke kitchen designs across the Central Coast and Newcastle.
To learn how precision-engineered steel framing can support your next renovation or new build, contact the team at Australian Steel Framing for tailored advice.